A pass-rusher like Georgia's Jarvis Jones would be intriguing here, but corner is the Lions' biggest need and Milliner has the potential to be an immediate starter. He's not an elite cover corner but good enough to hold up in man coverage, and he is very good in zone. Milliner is also strong in run support, and simply a good all-around player.

The 6-foot-1, 197-pound Milliner is widely considered the top cornerback in the class, but many don't view him as an elite prospect, merely a very good one.

As a junior, he's been outstanding, intercepting two passes and breaking up 20 more. Earlier this week he was named a First Team All-American by the Associated Press.

McShay notes the Lions could also consider a pass rusher, which could actually make more sense depending how the team addresses its own free agents. If Detroit retains cornerback Chris Houston, defensive end will be a far bigger need.

The Lions have three defensive ends, Willie Young (restricted), Kyle Vanden Bosch and Ronnell Lewis, under contract next season. Cliff Avril and Lawrence Jackson will be free agents.

It's also possible Vanden Bosch, who has a cap number around $11 million, could be a cap casualty.

While upgrading at cornerback wouldn't hurt, if the Lions aren't generating a pass rush from the edges, it won't matter who is manning the outside.